FILM fans in Stourbridge’s Old Quarter have been reflecting on the “end of an era” as a shop unit that was home to the area’s last-standing video rental store was tore down to make way for a new home.
The former GCL Video store in Clifton Street, which was more recently home to a dog grooming parlour, was bulldozed this week as part of new development plans.
The video store, run by Graham Lench, closed in 2015 – two years after the movie rental chain Blockbuster collapsed.
Posting on Facebook about the building’s demise, Graham said: “So sad to see my old shop being demolished. It was a huge part of my life, 25 years, that I still miss now. They were such good times and I had so many wonderful customers. Plus, I managed to outlast Blockbuster...by the skin of my teeth.”
Wollaston and Stourbridge Town councillor Andrew Tromans said he was “absolutely gutted” to see the shop building has now gone, adding: “GCL Video was big part of my childhood.
“You brought a lot of happiness to people. Going to a shop to rent a film…a relic of a more civilised age.”
Facebook commenter Lauren Tipper said on the Old Quarter Stourbridge Facebook site: “The end of an era for this little shop building situated in the middle of Clifton Street. “Most will remember it as GCL Video. It was a great shop and knocked spots off any Blockbuster!”
Another poster said: “Many fond memories as a kid coming here especially in the school holidays with my mom to rent a film!
“You were always so lovely full of recommendations and the memories still stay with me.”
Another added: “Absolutely loved this place. So many memories…so many good family film nights.”
Another poster said: “Loved your shop. Heart of the community for years.”
The building, attached to number 41 Clifton Street, has been demolished to make way for a new detached family home.
Planning permission for a four-bedroom house was approved with conditions on November 1 2023, documents on Dudley Council’s planning portal show.
The proposed new home will comprise a lounge, kitchen/dining room, utility room, WC and hall on the ground floor, four bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor, and a detached garage to the rear.
A planning officer’s report said: “The proposed development will provide a new dwelling house within an established residential area in a sustainable location. The design is considered to be acceptable and will add to the overall character and appearance of the area.”
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